Sunday, April 28, 2013

Disney Channel have released the official photos from the Good Luck Charlie Season 4 photoshoot. Season four of the hit family comedy “Good Luck Charlie” premieres SUNDAY, APRIL 28 (7:30-8:00
p.m., ET/PT) with a special performance by Disney’s The Muppets. Guest
stars Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and Animal join series
stars Bridgit Mendler and Leigh-Allyn Baker to perform a
show-stopping, Muppet-ational original song.

In the premiere episode, the Duncan Family decides to build their
dream house after the family home is devastated by termites. Everyone,
with the exception of Charlie, is excited at the prospect of a new and
larger home. However, Teddy has a change of heart after a dream in which
Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and Animal convince her that
the old family home is really the house of her dreams. The episode’s
original song “Dream House” is written by Grammy and Emmy-award winning
Adam Schlesinger (“That Thing You Do,” “Fountains of Wayne,” “Tony
Awards”) and produced by Schlesinger and Steven M. Gold (“Saturday Night
Live,” “The Colbert Report”).

The "Shake It Up" actress will co-write
the multi-book series "Autumn Falls" about a girl whose life is
transformed by magic.

Disney Channel star Bella
Thorne (Shake it Up) has sold Autumn Falls, a YA book series, to
Random House Children's Books, the publisher announced.

The series tells the story
of a 14-year-old girl whose life is transformed after an encounter with magic.

“This book, although
mysterious and magical, is inspired by different aspects of my personal life,
which I hold very near and dear to my heart," said Thorne. "I
wanted to write a book that teens could relate to, but with a little bit of
magic."

Thorne is best known for
playing dancer Cece Jones on Disney Channel's Shake It Up, which is in
its third season. She also has appeared on Big Love and My Own
Worst Enemy.

"TTYLXOX," her
2012 debut single, sold more than 400,000 copies and appeared on the Billboard
100 chart.

Beverly Horowitz, vice
president and publisher of the Delacorte Press Young Readers Group, praised
Thorne's "authentic and passionate voice," promising that young
female readers "will relate to Bella and her characters.”

Elise Allen will join
Thorne as co-author. Martin co-authored the Elixir series with Hilary
Duff and soloed on Populazzi. Editor Wendy Loggia, who will oversee
the books for RH's Delacorte imprint, negotiated the deal for the publisher. Thorne
was repped by Matthew Elblonk (DeFiore & Company), who also handled Lauren
Conrad's successful book deals.

The most popular recording artists among kids and tweens will be celebrated during the Radio Disney Music Awards, TONIGHT, APRIL 27 at Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE, it was announced today by Phil Guerini, Vice President and General Manager, Radio Disney. Selena Gomez, Bridgit Mendler, Cody Simpson, Austin Mahone and Coco Jones are scheduled to perform at the event.

Recognizing
viewing habits of its young demographic, kids and tweens who utilize
digital platforms and new technology to discover and listen to music,
Radio Disney will present the Radio Disney Music Awards in segments,
across multiple platforms -- on Vevo and on Disney Channel, Radio
Disney, RadioDisney.com and Disney.com.

Guerini said: "The Radio
Disney Music Awards are a celebration of our listeners' passion for
music, their favorite artists, and an extension of our promise to
provide kids and families with their music, their way. We are excited to
offer kids across the country the chance to be a part of what will be music's biggest night for kids."

The most popular
recording artists among kids and tweens will be celebrated during the Radio
Disney Music Awards, TONIGHT, APRIL 27 at Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE,
it was announced today by Phil Guerini, Vice
President and General Manager, Radio Disney. Selena Gomez, Bridgit Mendler,
Cody Simpson, Austin Mahone and Coco Jones are scheduled to
perform at the event.

Recognizing viewing habits of its young demographic, kids and tweens who
utilize digital platforms and new technology to discover and listen to music,
Radio Disney will present the Radio Disney Music Awards in segments, across
multiple platforms -- on Vevo and on Disney Channel, Radio Disney,
RadioDisney.com and Disney.com.

Guerini said: "The Radio Disney Music Awards are a celebration of our
listeners' passion for music, their favorite artists, and an extension of our
promise to provide kids and families with their music, their way. We are
excited to offer kids across the
country
the chance to be a part of what will be music's biggest night for kids."

Fans will be invited to vote on categories including
"Ultimate Breakout Star - Biggest Viral Artist," "XOXO - Best
Crush Song" and "So FANtastic- Fiercest Fans," among others. The
awards show will also honor five kids from across the country with the "Heroes for Change"
Award in recognition of their efforts to make a difference in their
communities. Additionally, in collaboration with Disney Friends for Change, kids between the ages of 5
and 18 across Radio Disney's 31 markets are invited to enter for a chance to
win a Youth Service Award, which provides one kid from each market with a $500
grant to benefit their Community project and a
chance to be honored live on-stage at the Radio Disney Music Awards with one of
their favorite stars.

The night's currently scheduled lineup of featured performances includes
artists across such major record labels as Atlantic Records,
Epic Records, Universal Republic Records and
Hollywood Records. Headlining the event is actress and multiplatinum recording
artist Selena Gomez. Other performers include platinum-selling recording artist
Cher Lloyd, a finalist on Season Seven of "The X Factor" (UK);
actress and certified gold pop artist Bridgit Mendler; 16-year-old pop star Cody Simpson; Youtube sensation Austin Mahone, one of Taylor
Swift's opening acts on her highly anticipated Red Tour; and actress,
singer/songwriter and former Radio Disney "N.B.T." artist Coco Jones.

Radio Disney is the #1, 24-hour radio network devoted to
kids, tweens and families. Kids help pick the music that is played and are
encouraged to interact via a toll-free phone line to the Radio Disney studio.
The network's current playlist, driven by listener requests and representing
major record labels, includes recording artists Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber,
Taylor Swift, One Direction, Katy Perry, Cody Simpson, Carly Rae Jepsen and
Cher Lloyd. The network is available on 31 owned terrestrial radio stations and
is also available via RadioDisney.com, Sirius XM satellite radio on channel 79,
iTunes Radio Tuner, mobile phones, the Radio Disney iPhone and Android Apps,
and the Radio Disney Facebook page.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Los Angeles, CA – Beginning May 5th,
actress MARIEVE HERINGTON hits the books once again as a recurring guest star
joining the final season of the hit Disney Channel show GOOD LUCK CHARLIE,
which kicks off on April 28, 2013.

In the fourth season of GOOD LUCK CHARLIE, PJ
Duncan (Jason Dolley) enrolls in cooking school where he meets another new
student, Winnie (Herington), who becomes his friend and cooking partner. All
the while Teddy (Bridgit Mendler) works on college applications, discovers a
new guy in town and works at remaining good friends with Spencer. Gabe develops
a crush on his new neighbor, Bob struggles with the bug business, Amy juggles
life as a mother to five and Charlie celebrates turning four years old.

Herington was thrilled at the opportunity to
step into the fourth season of this successful Disney show, commenting "The
show is so well written, acted, and directed, I was a little apprehensive about
Winnie keeping up! But everyone was so welcoming from moment one... and well,
taping in front of a live audience, there's really nothing like it.”

This isn’t the first time Herington has been
cast as a memorable student. She recently gained attention for her recurring
role on the CBS mega-hit “How I Met Your Mother” as ‘Betty’, a smart but frank
student of Ted Mosby (Josh Radnor). Her on-camera television credits also
include appearances on “The New Normal,” “Modern Family” and the upcoming USA
series, “Graceland.”

This Canadian born actress has appeared in
numerous live action shows and animation projects in both the U.S. and Canada.
Recognized by millions of animation enthusiasts and youngsters for her voice,
Herington recently voiced the character of the Hyrax -- the little furry
creatures who help Sid and the gang -- on Fox’s animated hit “Ice Age:
Continental Drift.” She has also lent her talents to hit video games like
"Dance Central" as Miss Aubrey and "Carnival Games."
Children can hear her every Saturday as Pearlie the Park Fairy on NBC's
animated cartoon series "Pearlie.” She’s also voiced numerous toys for
Mattel and MGAE, including the popular "Bratz" dolls, multiple anime
series, dozens of children’s books and radio commercials.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

This week's Jessie episode is packed with some buzzed about firsts! To
kick it off, Jessie and Tony are set to celebrate their 1 year
anniversary as a couple, and Jessie decides to write a song for her bf
for the special day. Things take a crazy turn when Jessie thinks Tony
forgot their anniversary and she ends up writing an angry song that goes
viral on Emma's vlog. But here's the best part -- Debby Ryan, who plays
Jessie, actually performs the song herself and get this -- she also
co-wrote it -- take a look:

I mean, how cute was that, right? Make sure to tune in to the Disney channel this Friday at 8:30 to get the full story. We also want to give a big shout-out to Debby Ryan for showing off her music skills -- don't you guys want more? Leave your comments right here and don't forget to subscribe to ClevverTV on YouTube for on-going entertainment news around the clock. I'm Joslyn Davis in Hollywood -- thanks for watching!

DISNEY TO PRESENT CONTEMPORARY KID- AND FAMILY VERSION OF HUGELY POPULAR GAME SHOW “WIN, LOSE OR DRAW” ON DISNEY CHANNEL

– Justin Willman Set to Host –

A contemporary, kid- and family version of the classic game show
“Win, Lose or Draw” will begin production in July for premiere later
this year on Disney Channel. Executive produced by Scott St. John
(“Deal or No Deal”) and produced by Summerdale Productions in
association with ABC Media Group, the drawing board and game play for
the new “Disney’s Win, Lose or Draw” will be powered by leading edge
technology, motion control, interactive multi-touch screen displays and
graphic technology with an interjection of comedic physical challenges.Engaging entertainer Justin Willman (host of “Cupcake Wars”) is set
to host. Each show will feature two teams each composed of two kid
contestants and a Disney star, competing in a battle of drawing skills,
creativity and wits to win prizes.
The announcement was made today by Adam Bonnett, Senior Vice President, Original Programming, Disney Channel.

Bonnett said, “We’re eager to introduce a generation of kids and
families to a 21st century version of the popular ‘Win, Lose or Draw,’
and are confident its creative game play plus its incorporation of
physical comedy will complement our programming line-up.”

The original game show “Win, Lose or Draw” aired on NBC from 1987-90
and in syndication. Disney’s “Teen Win, Lose or Draw” aired on Disney
Channel from 1989-92.

Disney Channel is a 24-hour kid-driven, family inclusive television
network that taps into the world of kids and families through original
series and movies. Currently available on basic cable in over 99 million
U.S. homes and to millions of other viewers on Disney Channels around
the world, Disney Channel is part of the Disney/ABC Television Group.

US media company Walt Disney will turn Disney Channel in Germany from
a pay-TV service into an advertising-financed free-to-air channel on 1
January 2014.

The 24-hour family channel will take over the transmission slots currently occupied by entertainment channel – Das Vierte which Disney acquired in autumn 2012 – on cable, satellite and DTT.

Disney will remain present in the German pay-TV market, with its
channels Disney Cinemagic, Disney Junior and Disney XD. Following the
transition into a free-to-air service, Disney Channel will continue to
mainly show TV series, cartoons and movies from the Disney library. The
schedule will also comprise programmes from third-party suppliers and
original productions for the German audience. While the daytime
programmes will target children, the prime time evening hours will focus
on all family members.

The new family channel will be headed by Lars Wagner, general manager
Disney Channels. The programme line-up of Das Vierte will remain
unchanged until the end of 2013. With the takeover of the distribution
slots by Disney Channel in January 2014, the channel name Das Vierte
will expire on German TV screens.

In the German free-to-air TV market, Disney also holds stakes in
general interest service RTL II and family channel Super RTL. With
Disney Channel going free-to-air, the channel will compete head-on with
Super RTL. Nevertheless, Disney wants to keep its 50% stake in Super
RTL. "This is a good model for both sides," sources at Disney told Rapid
TV News.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Disney Channel is pulling a surprising, and sudden, schedule change
to Wednesday nights starting this week. For the next three weeks, Disney
has scheduled three different classic original series to air at
midnight (ET/PT).
This Wednesday night (April 17), a single episode of Even Stevenswill air: “Influenza: The Musical”.

Next Wednesday (April 24) at midnight is two back-to-back episodes of Lizzie McGuire: “Between a Rock and a Bra Place” and “Gordo’s Bar Mitzvah”.

The following Wednesday (May 1) at midnight is two back-to-back showings of Kim Possible: “Emotion Sickness” and “Bonding”.

This will be the first time a regular Even Stevens episode (minus the DCOM) has aired on Disney Channel since 2007. Lizzie McGuire was last seen on April 7, 2010 (minus a few airings of the movie that summer). Regular Kim Possible episodes
have been off U.S. airwaves since Disney Channel did the “classic
purge” on June 30, 2010 (where almost all non-current series were
dropped from their late-night line-up).

Entertainment’s brightest young stars among kids and tweens are scheduled to present at the Radio Disney Music Awards
(RDMAs), a celebration of music’s most popular young artists on
Saturday, April 27 at Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE. Selena Gomez, Bridgit
Mendler (“Good Luck Charlie”), Denise Richards (“Twisted”), R&B
artist Jason Derulo, Jessica Sanchez (“American Idol”), NASCAR Daytona
500 Champion Trevor Bayne, Zendaya (“Shake It Up,” “Dancing with the
Stars”) and Bella Thorne (“Shake It Up”) are among the presenters, and
Justin Bieber, Demi Lovato and Ryan Seacrest will make special
appearances.

Selena Gomez, Cher Lloyd, Bridgit Mendler, Cody Simpson, Mindless
Behavior, Austin Mahone and Coco Jones are scheduled to perform at the
event. Nominees include One Direction, Taylor Swift and The Wanted.
Further information on the Radio Disney Music Awards is available at www.RadioDisney.com; tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster.com.

Radio Disney is the #1, 24-hour radio network devoted to kids, tweens
and families. Kids help pick the music that is played and are encouraged
to interact via a toll-free phone line to the Radio Disney studio. The
network’s current playlist, driven by listener requests and representing
major record labels, includes recording artists Selena Gomez, Justin
Bieber, Taylor Swift, One Direction, Katy Perry, Cody Simpson, Carly Rae
Jepsen and Cher Lloyd. The network is available on 31 owned terrestrial
radio stations and is also available via RadioDisney.com, Sirius XM
satellite radio on channel 79, iTunes Radio Tuner, mobile phones, the
Radio Disney iPhone and Android Apps, and the Radio Disney Facebook
page.

Summers have always held a special significance for kids’ channels
owing to the fact that summer programming implies an increase of around
15 per cent to 20 per cent in viewership. With the advent of vacations,
players in the kids’ space are keen to garner maximum market share
through different activities that will help engage their target audience
in every possible manner.

To tap the vacation season, Disney Channel India is all set to launch
‘Jet Set 2’, the second chapter of their earlier campaign ‘Jet Set Go’,
which was introduced in the summer of 2012. It may be recalled that last
year the channel has joined hands with Jet Airways to fly 33 kids and
their families from 24 towns across India to Hong Kong Disneyland.

Elaborating on the core objectives of the campaign, Vijay Subramaniam,
Executive Director, Kids Network, Disney-UTV stated, “Through the second
chapter, we wanted to bring another magical and a ‘money cannot buy
experience’ to the kids and their families. There are two primary
reasons why we are going ahead with ‘Jet Set 2’. The first reason is
because of the huge popularity that it enjoys and the success in
delivering a compelling experience through the perfect amalgamation of
right Disney elements. The second reason is because it is important
strategically to demonstrate what Disney as a channel stands for.”

Key elements

‘Jet Set 2’, which has been launched on April 13, 2013 aims to bring
back last year’s excitement, coupled with some new elements for greater
engagement. According to Subramaniam, Disney Channel India’s philosophy
is to provide kid-centric family engagement through the concept of
airing wholesome family entertainment.

Disney Channel has added few interesting elements to increase the
chances of winning. The channel will have 90 unique numbers to keep the
engagement levels up. Kids can refer a friend and earn bonus points both
for themselves as well as their friends. One can earn up to 300 bonus
points for three successful referrals and the Disney Channel loyal
viewers can earn up to 100 reward points for all the previous day’s
participation.

Apart from on-air promotions of the property, the channel will also
introduce a special branded plane, a ‘Jet Set 2’ inspired designer line
by Indian designers and a two-day holiday at Hong Kong Disneyland.

Game plan

Subramaniam believes that the property is an interesting veneer, which
will present holistic opportunities for kids. It is essentially a
commitment to create a compelling experience for the viewers and an
opportunity to celebrate summer with Disney. The game plan has been kept
simple since the property pertains to kids. ‘Jet Set 2’ will run for 30
days, wherein each day one family will be declared a winner.

As part of the game plan, kids can enter by
watching Disney Channel from April 13, 2013 for a month and spotting an
animated Disney branded Jet Airways aircraft which will appear on the
screen. Children can accumulate points each time they spot the aircraft
by dialing a toll-free number flashing on the screen, free of cost, and
leaving a missed call. Those who spot the aircraft the maximum number of
times per day earn the maximum points and at the end of each day, the
highest scorer will be announced as the winner on Disney Channel. One
winner will be picked each day with the winners and their families going
to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort for a two-day Disney experience.

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Disney Channel's hit special event "The Wizards Return: Alex vs Alex,"
starring superstar sensation Selena Gomez reprising her role as Alex
Russo, makes its highly-anticipated debut on DVD - June 25, 2013! Making
the release a must-own, the DVD debut of "The Wizards Return: Alex vs Alex" also contains the final episode of the original series Wizards of Waverly Place,
the most-watched series finale in Disney Channel's history.
"Overflowing with big adventure, stunning special effects, epic stunts,
exotic locales, and supernatural elements, The Wizards Return: Alex vs Alex is an exciting collectible for any Wizards fan and a fantastic adventure for the whole family."

The Russo family headed to Italy, to meet their long lost
relatives...but when Alex (Selena Gomez) tries to prove she's more than a
seemingly carefree young Wizard, she inadvertently conjures a spell
that creates a Good Alex and an Evil Alex. When Evil Alex gets roped
into a charming young wizard's foreboding plan to take over the world,
Good Alex must find a way to save her family and humankind, which leads
to a monumental battle between the two versions of herself - all atop
the Tower of Pisa.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Jackee Harry has joined the "Girl Meets World" cast.
Disney confirmed to The Huffington Post that the "Sister, Sister" and
"227" veteran filmed a role in the pilot. No other details about her
role have been revealed.

"Girl Meets World" checks back in with Cory (Ben Savage) and Topanga
(Danielle Fishel) from the ABC series "Boy Meets World." The couple now
has teen children of their own. In addition to Savage and Fishel, "Boy
Meets World" veteran William Daniels will also appear in the pilot. The
teen cast includes Rowan Blanchard, Sabrina Carpenter and Teo Halm.

Disney has yet to order the pilot to series.

Harry won an Emmy for her work on "227." Her other TV credits include
"Everybody Hates Chris," "Let's Stay Together" and the new series "The
First Family," which reunites Harry with her "227" co-star Marla Gibbs.

Tuesday, April 09, 2013

Bridgit Mendler's second single "Hurricane" from her debut album "Hello My Name Is" is set to premiere on Disney Channel on Friday, April 12. Bridgit Mendler tweeted on herofficial twitter page (@bridgitmendler):

Monday, April 08, 2013

Disney Channel have released the official promo for the Season 4 Premiere episode of Good Luck Charlie titled, "Duncan Dream House". The episode premieres on Sunday, April 28 at 7.30pm.

In the episode, after the family home is devastated by termites, the Duncan Family decides to
build their dream house, which excites everyone but Charlie. However, Teddy has
a change of heart after a dream in which Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie
Bear and Animal convince her that the old family home is really the house of
her dreams. The episode guest stars Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and Animal.

Karan Brar of Disney Channel's JESSIE is hosting a live chat on Monday, April 8 at 6:30PM ET/3:30PM PT in which he'll be talking about what's coming in the rest of the second season of the hit Disney show, and more! The live chat can be found HERE.

Sunday, April 07, 2013

Roshon Fegan and Caroline Sunshine stars of Disney Channel's Shake It Up are featured in the latest Disney Magic of Heathly Living commercial - an initiative designed to partner with
parents in their quest to raise healthy, happy kids. The program
provides kids and families with engaging content, useful tools and
unique experiences to help make healthier lifestyles simple and fun.

Friday, April 05, 2013

She has been upped to vp programming strategy, acquisitions and co-productions.Disney Channels Worldwide has promoted Karen K. Miller to vp programming strategy, acquisitions and co-productions, it was announced Thursday by Paul DeBenedittis, senior vp programming strategy. Miller will report to DeBenedittis.In her new position, the Burbank-based Miller will continue to direct the
development of overall scheduling strategies to ensure regional and
local programming plans are consistent with global priorities. She also
oversees the global acquisitions process, sourcing live-action and
animated series and movies worldwide for Disney Channel, Disney XD and
Disney Junior. She also steers co-production opportunities, from
creative development and production, for Disney Channels Worldwide, and
is the lead representative for TV and entertainment markets."Karen is both strategic and creative and is highly respected for her
expertise and unfailing work ethic. Her leadership greatly contributes
to the success of our kids TV business and this well deserved promotion
recognizes that fact," said DeBenedittis.

She previously held the executive director title. Prior to joining
Disney Channels Worldwide, Miller worked at Atlantyca Entertainment, was
an animation associate producer on The Simpsons Movie and spent 18 years at Warner Bros.

Disney XD has ordered “Mighty Med,” a live-action comedy series
inspired by the extraordinary world of super heroes and comic books —
starring Bradley Steven Perry (Disney Channel’s “Good Luck Charlie”) as
Kaz and Jake Short (Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm”) as Oliver. The
multi-camera series will begin production in Los Angeles, California in
July for a fall 2013 premiere on Disney XD. The announcement was made by
Adam Bonnett, Senior Vice President, Original Programming, Disney
Channel.

In making the announcement, Bonnett said, “Bradley Steven Perry and
Jake Short are two incredibly popular Disney stars whose comedic timing
and relatable on-screen friendship make them the perfect pair for
‘Mighty Med.’ Our Disney XD audience will go on a journey with these
characters, two comic book fanboys whose love and knowledge of sci-fi,
fantasy and super heroes land them the coolest after school job ever —
working at Mighty Med, a hospital for super heroes.”

The series follows best friends Kaz and Oliver who, while hanging out
at their favorite comic book store, inadvertently discover a secret
wing of a hospital that caters to super heroes and comic book
characters.

The pilot was created and written by Emmy Award-nominee Jim Bernstein
(Disney’s “Phineas and Ferb”) and Andy Schwartz (“Scrubs”), and
directed by Eric Dean Seaton (“Kickin’ It”). Stephen Engel (Disney
Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm,” “The Big Bang Theory”) and Bernstein served as
executive producers and Schwartz served as supervising producer. “Mighty
Med” is a production of It’s A Laugh Productions, Inc.

Disney XD is a basic cable channel and multi-platform brand showcasing a
compelling mix of live-action and animated programming for Kids age
6-14, hyper-targeting boys and their quest for discovery,
accomplishment, sports, adventure and humor. Disney XD branded content
spans television, online, mobile and VOD platforms. The programming
includes series, movies and short-form, as well as sports-themed
programming developed with ESPN. In the U.S., Disney XD is seen on a
24-hour, advertiser supported network that reaches over 78 million
households via its basic cable and satellite affiliates.

Dove Cameron, the 17-year-old upcoming Disney Channel star who will star in Disney Channel’s new series “Liv
& Maddie” and DCOM “Cloud 9,” posted a photo from the set of Liv & Maddie on her official Instagram account (DoveCameron), thanking Disney for her gift basket she received:

In Liv & Maddie 17-year-old newcomer Dove Cameron plays the dual role of
identical twins in this upcoming sitcom. Ms. Cameron will also star in
“Cloud 9,” a Disney Channel Original Movie premiering in 2014 (see
below). The series was created by John Beck and Ron Hart (both of
“According to Jim”). John Peaslee, Andy Fickman (“The Game Plan,” “Race
to Witch Mountain”) and Betsy Sullenger are also executive producers.
Cameron plays identical twins — an outstanding student and school
basketball phenomenon whose popularity is on the rise until her twin
sister, a television star, makes a triumphant return to their Wisconsin
high school. Also starring are: Benjamin King, Kali Rocha, Joey Bragg
and Tenzing Norgay Trainor.

Wednesday, April 03, 2013

Disney Channel has ordered a third season of "Austin & Ally," TV's
#1 comedy series in Kids 2-11, it was announced today by Adam Bonnett,
Senior Vice President, Original Programming, Disney Channels Worldwide.
The series stars Ross Lynch, Laura Marano, Raini Rodriguez and Calum
Worthy. Production resumes in Los Angeles in July, with Season Three
scheduled to premiere in October 2013.

Bonnett said: "'Austin & Ally' continues to hit high notes with kids
and families, and the new season promises excitement for 'Auslly' fans
as Austin's music career kicks into full gear and Ally's begins to take
flight. This ensemble cast -- Ross Lynch, Laura Marano, Raini Rodriguez
and Calum Worthy -- has incredible comedic chemistry and charm that
continues to win audiences over."

A fan favorite, "Austin & Ally" follows the adventures of an
improbable pair -- a singer and a songwriter, and their two best friends
-- trying to achieve their dreams. Austin, now making his mark as an
upcoming pop star, must rely on the songwriting expertise of Ally, who
is fast becoming a bona fide performer in her own right.

"Austin & Ally" is TV's #1 series in Kids 2-11 (2.3 million/5.9
rating), Kids 6-11 (1.9 million/8.1 rating) and Tweens 9-14 (1.8
million/7.7 rating). The series hit a series ratings high among Tweens
during the quarter and delivered its #2 telecast of all time in Total
Viewers, Kids 2-11 and Kids 6-11.

Created by Kevin Kopelow and Heath Seifert ("Good Burger," "Kenan &
Kel," Disney Channel's "Sonny With A Chance" and "JONAS"), and
executive-produced by Kopelow, Seifert and Rick Nyholm ("I'm in the
Band," "George Lopez"), the series stars musician and actor Ross Lynch
as Austin, actress Laura Marano ("Without a Trace," "Back to You") as
Ally, Raini Rodriguez (Disney's "Prom," "I'm in the Band") as Trish and
Calum Worthy ("Psych," "Good Luck Charlie") as Dez.

Audiences continue to embrace music from the series, with the "Austin
& Ally" soundtrack peaking at #1 on iTunes Top Soundtracks chart,
and the music video for "Heard it on the Radio" posting nearly 8 million
views on VEVO. Additionally, fans continued to show their support and
creativity by creating one million "unique" versions of the interactive
music video on AustinandAllyVideo.com.

New episodes of "Austin & Ally" air SUNDAYS on Disney Channel. The
series is a production of It's A Laugh Productions, Inc and carries a
TV-G parental guideline.

Disney Channel is a 24-hour kid-driven, family inclusive television
network that taps into the world of kids and families through original
series and movies. Currently available on basic cable in over 99 million
U.S. homes and to millions of other viewers on Disney Channels around
the world, Disney Channel is part of the Disney/ABC Television Group.

EXCLUSIVE: Michael Healy, Disney Channel‘s
SVP Original Movies, is leaving the company after nearly 16 years and
more than 90 Disney Channel movies to pursue other opportunities. Healy,
whose last day is April 26, led the Disney Channel Original Movie
franchise to a streak of 11 consecutive year-end finishes as cable TV’s
#1 original movie telecast among tweens 9-14, boasting the #1 scripted
cable TV telecast in total viewers for six of the past seven years. He
shepherded megahits High School Musical and its sequel High School Musical 2 whose premiere became the most watched basic-cable telecast with 18.6 million viewers. The HSM
franchise also crossed over into features and into virtually every
facet of the Disney company to become a billion-dollar worldwide
franchise. Other hit Disney Channel original movies developed by Healy
include Princess Protection Program, The Cheetah Girls (1-3), Camp Rock, Jump In! and Wizards Of Waverly Place The Movie.
“Michael’s contributions to Disney Channel have been enormous and we
will definitely miss his wit, his wisdom and his remarkable
story-telling ability,” said Gary Marsh, President and Chief Creative
Officer, Disney Channels Worldwide, who worked with Healy for his entire
tenure at the channel. “We wish him continued success with his next
ventures.” In light of Healy’s departure, Disney Channel’s Original
Movie department will be restructured. Healy has Disney Channel’s
original movie pipeline well stocked up: His ambitious break-into-song
musical Teen Beach Movie, from writer Robert Horn, director
Jeffrey Hornaday and choreographer Chris Scott, will premiere in July.
It will be followed up by snowboarding adventure Cloud 9, executive produced by HSM‘s Ashley Tisdale and snowboarding superstar Shaun White.

Healy joined Disney Channel in October 1997 as VP Original Movies.
Before that, he was Director of Motion Pictures-for-Television for CBS,
working on more than 50 movies, and VP for Movies for TV and Mini-Series
for Reeves Entertainment. Healy began his career as a writer at The Courier Express in Buffalo, NY, and was a movie critic for The Denver Post and The Daily News Of Los Angeles.

We just chatted with Kickin It's Olivia Holt! She spilled about the new seasonpremiering
tonight at 8:30/7:30c (April 1) on Disney XD, the cast member she's closest with,
and her favorite episode so far! To find out which exciting guest star
Olivia is looking forward to working with, check out our exclusive
Q&A below!
XOXO,
TWIST

TWIST: What can we expect from the new season of Kickin' It?
Olivia Holt: I'm super excited for everyone to see the new season of Kickin' It,
it's been a really fun season to shoot so far. The guys and I are
really, really pumped for everyone to see it. This season you get to see
the characters grow up, and the audience gets to grow up with them,
which I think is really nice. Our characters go on all these
adventures--we're traveling a lot this season--which is super fun. You
get to see my character and my costar Leo Howard's character get this
relationship started that everyone's been waiting to see, and form this
special bond, which I think is really nice. It's so far been a really,
really fun season to shoot because not only are there a lot of martial
arts involved, but there's actually a lot of raw acting that I think is
gonna be really nice for everyone to see. I'm really pumped for everyone
to check out the third season because it's been a lot of fun for us and
I really hope that everyone else enjoys it too!

TWIST: Do you have a favorite moment of filming the season so far?
OH: Yeah, there was one episode which I think was really nice not only
for me, but for the guys as well. It's an episode where we focus more on
our acting and more on just the relationships between all of our
characters. There's one scene that gave all of our crew members chills
just because of how incredibly the scene was written and because of how
hard we worked to make the scene as perfect as possible. The scene is
basically my character Kim and Leo's character Jack, and their
relationship towards each other and the way that they form a special
bond. It's one of my favorite scenes and also one of my favorite
episodes of the season we've shot so far. It's the kind of an episode
that's unforgettable!

TWIST: If you had to give one reason why readers should absolutely tune in to watch the season premiere, what would it be?
OH: Because it's going to be the best season that we've had so far, and
you're gonna really enjoy everything that you see, every episode is
gonna be incredible!

TWIST: Is there one person you're closest to in the cast?
OH: I'd have to say Jason Earles, he has really been like a mentor to me
on set, not only if I needed help on scripts, but also in life in
general. He's such a fun guy, so easygoing, and at the same time such a
hard worker. He's one of my best friends and I text him while on hiatus
or on a day off when I need him, and he's always there for me. He's a
really great guy just really fun to be around!

TWIST: What are your goals for your character while filming the season?
OH: I think the writers really put thought into that first season
because every episode that we have shot so far, you really do get to see
my character Kim transform into this girl who's still a kick-butt,
confident lady, but she's growing up. What I like about her this season
is that she's so upfront about how she feels with people and I think
that's something that the audience really wants to see, her being
completely honest with herself and other people. That's what she's
doing, and I really like that. I'm really excited that we're having a
bunch of guest stars in the next few weeks, like Gabby Douglas. It's
gonna be a really fun episode because I did gymnastics growing up and
she's coming in to do an episode and Kim will get to have a bunch of
scenes with her and that'll be really fun to see.

TWIST: Will we get to see you doing any of your gymnastic moves alongside her?
OH: I really hope so, they haven't given us the script yet, so hopefully
they'll give it to me soon and I'll see a bunch of gymnastics stuff in
there. I think that'd be really fun!

TWIST: What's up next for you?
OH: I have been in the studio working on some new music, and the more
music I do the more it inspires me to do more! I'm really crossing my
fingers that I'll have some new music out this year. It's been a lot of
fun and music inspires me a lot, and I love it with a passion! Hopefully
my fans will be able to listen to some music this year. I'm also really
pumped everyone to see Season Three, which comes out on April 1st, and
[airs] all throughout the year. I'm really excited for this year, it's
been a good year so far.

TWIST: Well, thank you so much Olivia!
OH: Thank you, it was great talking to you!

Monday, April 01, 2013

Beginning Friday April 5, Disney Channel have a special weekend in store for Disney Channel fans titled "FREAKY FREAKEND" in which characters from all your favourite Disney Channel shows switch bodies which each other. The programming block includes all new episodes of A.N.T Farm, JESSIE, Dog With A Blog, Austin & Ally and Shake It Up. Below is the full line up of shows as well as the official "FREAKY FREAKEND" full length promo.

Friday, April 5

8:00 p.m. A.N.T. Farm “idANTity crisis”After noticing that her friends have become oddly respectful of Principal
Skidmore, Chyna discovers that she has been manipulating the ANTs with a frozen
yogurt machine. Meanwhile, Lexi is disturbed by a recurring nightmare where she
has a crush on Cameron.

8:30 p.m. Jessie “To Be Me, or Not To Be Me”Jessie gets her first big acting part in a Shakespeare production in the park —
however, she ends up switching personalities with Zuri, who must now pull off
Jessie’s performance without ruining it for her.

Sunday, April 7

8:00 p.m. Dog With A Blog “Freaky Fido”When Avery’s teacher challenges her to have fun on her next school project, she
decides to film a “Freaky Friday” type of movie, since Stan really talks.

8:30 p.m. Austin & Ally “Freaky Friends & Fan
Fiction”Dez buys an antique typewriter from Trish to use for a story writing
competition, only to discover that it’s magical, and anything he writes
actually happens.

9:00 p.m. Shake It Up “Switch It Up”CeCe and Flynn accidentally switch bodies through an old curse of Tinka’s
grandma. When they learn they’re stuck that way for 24 hours, or until they
learn a lesson, they realize Flynn will have to dance for CeCe on “Shake It Up
Chicago!” and CeCe will have to learn tuba and nail Flynn’s audition for the
marching band. Meanwhile, Ty thinks Rocky is trying to kill him since he didn’t
put her in that week’s dance.